‘How Mary Habila died’ – Colleague Anita Baaki narrates
Investigation Continues into Death of Nurse at Federal Ministry of Works
EBONYI, Nigeria — Anita Baaki, a physiotherapist and a colleague of Mary Habila, the nurse associated with the David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences, has detailed the circumstances surrounding Habila’s death in a sworn affidavit submitted to the Ebonyi State High Court on Wednesday.
Baaki, a resident of Benue State, recounted her journey with Habila and other officials from Abuja to Ebonyi State on June 24, 2026, for official duties under Works Minister David Umahi. The group was lodged in a staff chalet at the minister’s residence in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area.
In her affidavit, Baaki clarified that the accommodation was designated for ministry personnel and was not the minister’s personal home. She noted that she last saw Habila alive on the evening of June 26, shortly after Habila returned from a hairstyling appointment.
“Habila told me she was tired and wanted to take a shower before sleeping. That was the last time I saw her alive,” Baaki said.
Concern grew the next morning when Habila did not emerge from her room as expected. Baaki reported that her calls to Habila’s phone went unanswered, prompting her to knock on the door. When there was still no response, she enlisted the help of a domestic staff member to search the premises. After failing to locate Habila elsewhere, they forced open the door to her room.
Baaki recounted that Habila was discovered lying unconscious near the entrance. She was subsequently transported to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, where medical personnel pronounced her dead on arrival.
Baaki emphasized that her statement was made voluntarily to aid in the investigation into Habila’s death.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and legal representatives for the Minister of Works have requested a detailed forensic autopsy to ascertain the cause of death before Habila’s remains are released for burial.
